Brenda Christian Payne

Brenda Christian Payne, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, in South Hill, Virginia, at the age of 77, after a long-term illness. Brenda was born on November 26, 1947, to Buford “B.B” Broome and Margaret (Wasson) Broome in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She grew up in Tulsa with her sister, Sue, and her little brother, Brad. Brenda shared a special relationship with her paternal grandmother, Maud “Ganno” Broome, who introduced her to the Bible and instilled in her a lifelong dedication to Christian values.

Brenda graduated from Nathan Hale High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1967. She went on to attend Oklahoma State University, where she met her first husband, Steve Christian. In 1970, Brenda’s parents relocated to Oklahoma City, and she established her first home just a block away. In 1971, she welcomed her first son, Mark, and just 15 months later, her second son, Spencer, arrived.

Brenda was a devoted mother to her two boys, always planning unforgettable adventures. She cherished their month-long summer trips to the Great Smoky Mountains. The trio often stayed in a log cabin on a mountainside overlooking Gatlinburg, Tennessee, from which they hiked to Laurel Falls, explored the winding roads of Cades Cove, and sought out antique treasures across the Old South.

As her children grew and began their own journeys, Brenda found a renewed chapter of love and companionship with her husband, Mel Payne of Victoria, Virginia. Their shared faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of their marriage, and together, Mel and Brenda embraced life’s joys and challenges with steadfast love, mutual care, and an abiding trust in His plan.

Brenda is survived by her loving husband, Mel; her sons, Mark Christian of Edmond, OK, and Spencer Christian and his wife Jill of Warwick, RI; and her five grandchildren: William Christian of Oklahoma City, OK, Caroline Christian of St. Peters, MO, Harrison Christian of Edmond, OK, Abigail Christian of Warwick, RI, and Emery Christian of Warwick, RI.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Buford Bowman Broome and Margaret (Wasson) Broome, and her brother, Bradley Broome of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Brenda will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her unwavering strength, and her endless capacity for love. Her kindness, faith, and devotion to her family and friends will forever remain a cherished memory for all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Funeral services for Brenda Christian Payne will be held 2PM Thursday, December 12, 2024 at the Amelia Veteran’s Cemetery, 10300 Pridesville Road, Amelia Court House, VA 23002. Staples Funeral Home, Victoria, in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Brenda’s honor to your favorite charity.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.